Financial Benefits

Victims of crime can get a monetary benefit to acknowledge victimization, based on the injuries directly suffered from the crime.

There are 3 types of benefits you can apply for:

injury benefit for victims who were physically and / or psychologically injured as a direct result of a crime

witness benefit for victims who witnessed a crime that resulted in the death of a loved one

death benefit that reimburses funeral costs for victims that died as a result of violent crime

A Supplemental Financial Benefit is also given for victims who are quadriplegic or have a brain injury that’s left them unable to care for themselves and totally dependent on someone else for their care.

What’s important to know

You don’t need to wait for a charge or conviction to apply for financial benefits.

You have 2 years after the date of the incident to apply. If you were under 18 when the crime occurred, you have 10 years to apply.

If you’re eligible, all you have to do is complete the application form. The financial benefits office will get all the information they need to make a decision on your application.

All injuries must be verified by the medical professional (doctor or counsellor) who treated you for your injuries.

You can find Financial Benefits Injury Applicationsand Death Benefit Applications forms online or they can be picked up from the RDCVSU office, your local victim services office or your local police detachment. RDCVSU can assist you in filling out these forms.

Submit completed forms by mail, fax or in person. Applications submitted by e-mail will not be accepted.

Resources

Note: Injuries or Deaths resulting from impaired driving or other criminal driving charges are not covered by the Financial Benefits Program. Victims in these circumstances may be eligible for the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program.